Tunisia: Tunisia's Sidi Bou Said village inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List.

Tunisia's iconic village of Sidi Bou Said has been inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List, the country's Ministry of Cultural Affairs said on Saturday. The decision was adopted during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee, running from July 19 to 29 in Busan, South Korea. The ministry said the site was recognized for its outstanding universal value, citing its distinct architectural identity, rich cultural heritage, and centuries-long contribution to Mediterranean civilization. Even before UNESCO's official nod, Sidi Bou Said had already earned widespread admiration from locals and tourists, given its unique blend of natural beauty, architecture, art, and spiritual heritage. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the ancient ruins of Carthage, Sidi Bou Said is known for its picturesque blue-and-white architecture, cobblestone alleys, and sweeping panoramic views. Founded in the 14th century, the village owes its name to the revered Sufi scholar Abu Said al-Baji, whose sanctuary became the spiritual foundation around which the community expanded over centuries. Resident Aly Cherif has dedicated decades to protecting this picturesque hilltop village. He served on the committee that prepared Sidi Bou Said's nomination for the World Heritage List -- a bid built around three defining features. Defined by whitewashed walls, blue doors, and ornate windows, Sidi Bou Said owes its distinctive character to an architectural harmony that became the centerpiece of its UNESCO bid. For many foreign tourists, the village offers more than postcard-perfect views -- its preserved streets and historic atmosphere are also seen as compelling grounds for UNESCO recognition. Other tourists say Sidi Bou Said's charm lies in the experience itself -- the colors, the calm streets, and the pleasure of discovering the village on foot. Their impressions have added public momentum to its nomination. Beyond its touristic allure, the nomination carries a deeper mission: safeguarding a living heritage. Supporters see the UNESCO recognition as a tool to bolster conservation, while keeping future development in step with the village's enduring character. Shotlist: Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia - July 24, 2026: 1. Various of paintings on display in museum; resident Aly Cherif watching paintings; 2. Various of buildings; 3. SOUNDBITE (Arabic, dubbed in English) Aly Cherif, resident (starting with shot 2/partially overlaid with shot 4): "The first defining feature is the extraordinary natural beauty of this place. The second is its distinctive architecture. The third is the art, Sufi heritage and spiritual atmosphere that have shaped Sidi Bou Said. It is the combination of these three elements that makes the village truly unique." [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 4. Buildings [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 5. Various of buildings; 6. SOUNDBITE (Arabic, dubbed in English) Jamel Seguira, tourist guide (starting with shot 5/partially overlaid with shot 7): "Sidi Bou Said stands out for its beauty and distinctive architecture. It has preserved its Arab-Andalusian character, while its colors blend perfectly with the surrounding landscape -- the blue of the village echoing the blue of the sky and the Mediterranean." [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 7. Various of buildings [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 8. Various of tourists, buildings; 9. SOUNDBITE (Slovakian, dubbed in English) Marian, Slovakian tourist (full name not given) (starting with shot 8/ending with shot 10): "It definitely should be included on the World Heritage List. It is beautiful, well preserved, and still carries the spirit of its history."; 10. Various of buildings, tourists; 11. SOUNDBITE (French, dubbed in English) Mariam, French tourist (full name not given) (starting with shot 10, partially overlaid with shot 12/ending with shot 13): "Sidi Bou Said is very charming. The colors are beautiful, and the blue really stands out. It is a very welcoming little town, and it is a pleasure to walk around. Honestly, it is lovely, and I would definitely recommend visiting." [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 12. Various of tourists, buildings [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]; 13. Various of buildings; 14. Pier, sea. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]